To ask the Secretary of State for the Environment what further measures he intends to take to encourage recycling of CFCs; and if he will make a statement.
We are today issuing a consultation paper which contains proposals to ban the import and supply to the United Kingdom market of refrigerant in disposable containers. These containers impede recycling because they cannot be refilled with refrigerant. They are also particularly damaging to the ozone layer, because the heel of CFCs which remains is usually vented to the atmosphere before the container is disposed of. Copies of the consultation paper have been placed in the Libraries of both Houses.We are also intending to issue a consumer leaflet towards the end of March. This will make consumers aware which products contain CFCs and how they can help to improve their environment by encouraging industry and local authorities to provide more recycling services.